FAQ on Electrical Chimney

A chimney is fitted right above the cooking appliance. When turned on it sucks all the oil, smoke, spices etc generated during cooking. The oil gets trapped into the modular filters and the odor/smoke is either filtered or recirculated into the room or they are thrown out of the room through the duct.

2. Does a chimney really work?/How does it differ from an exhaust fan?

Yes a chimney is very effective. It not only throws/ purifies the air but it also traps the oil , spices. This not only keeps the kitchen air clean it also prevents the blackening of the walls/ furniture which can’t be does by the exhaust fan.

3. How is it fitted?

It can be fitted in ducting or recycling mode. In the ducting mode, heavier particles of Oil/grease/spice are trapped in the baffle / mesh filter, and the smoke/fumes are ducted out of the house. In case ducting is not feasible, the chimney can also be fitted in a re-cycling mode. In this mode, heavier particles of Oil/grease/spice are trapped in the baffle / mesh filter and the smoke/fumes are filtered through the activated charcoal filter. The clean, deodorized air is then re-circulated into the room.

4. Who will fit the chimney?

A Skilled Technician should be called to install the chimney.

5. Is Ducting compulsory?

No, but it is always advisable as the efficiency and the suction capacity of the chimney increases, and there is no recurring cost of the charcoal filters.

6. Are there separate models for re-cycling and ducting?

Yes and No. Some models can be used in both modes of installation and some not.

7. What should be the size of the duct pipe, length of ducting and the number of bends for effective suction?

Please check with the manufacturer for these specifications. There is a norm which has to be followed to ensure proper operation and reliability. Things to check are pipe diameter and ducting length. Also please check the maximum number of bends your ducting pipe can have.

8. Can a smaller diameter pipe be fitted?

No. Using a smaller diameter pipe causes a backpressure to act on the motor. This may void the warranty!

9. At what height should the chimney be fitted?

One manufacturer wants the users to mount the chimney at a height of not less than 65 cms from the burners and ideally not more than 75 cms. This can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so please check with them.

10. How to maintain the chimney?

The Mesh filters have to be cleaned in warm detergent water every 8-10 days, and the Baffle filters have to be cleaned in warm detergent water every 15-20 days depending on usage. In case of re-cycling the charcoal filters have to be replaced every 3-4 months, depending on the usage.

11. Life and cost of charcoal filter?

Typically, the charcoal filters last around 3-4 months. However, this period may become vary depending on the usage. Cost should be confirmed with the local service center.

12. What is the suction capacity available?

Chimneys are available in a range of suction capacities, from 300 m³/Hr to 1000 m³/Hr. The suction requirements of the chimney depend on a lot of parameters like the cooking habits & kitchen size.

13. Is it true that the chimney makes a lot of noise?

No, this depends on the speed of operations and suction capacity of the kitchen chimney. This can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so please check with them.

14. What is the electric consumption?

It depends on the individual models. This can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so please check with them.